Signs Putin Is No Longer Russia’s Ronald Reagan

The political climate in Russia has changed dramatically in just the last two months and it’s no longer certain that Vladimir Putin will be elected president in March, according to experts at LIGNET.com. Even if elected, returning to the office he held for eight years, Putin’s grip on power will be weaker. No longer will he be seen as the answer to what ails Russia, as a Russian-styled Ronald Reagan. Without a strong leader in the Kremlin, other forces at work in Russia are sure to assert themselves.

Why Chevron Chose Right

In a decision that could cost Chevron (CVX) $8.5 billion, the company ignored a Feb. 3 deadline to apologize for environmental damage in the Amazon River basin. In defying Ecuador’s demand, Chevron exposes itself to criticism, not only from environmental activists, but also from its shareholders. But it might have been the best move, for two reasons.

The Coming Chinese Crash

The International Monetary Fund said this week that China’s economy could slow by 4 percent if Europe’s economic crisis worsens. This would devastate China, which relies on rapid growth to feed its people. To prevent a crisis, China must do two things.